Refrigerator water and ice dispensers are rarely cleaned despite being a direct water contact surface. The dispenser nozzle, drip tray, and ice chute accumulate mould, mineral scale, and biofilm — particularly in the warm, moisture-exposed dispenser area. Cleaning every 1–2 months is recommended.
Dispenser Nozzle and Surround
- Dip a small brush (a bottle brush or dedicated fridge dispenser brush, available online) in white vinegar
- Insert the brush into the water dispenser nozzle and scrub the inside — pink or black residue is mould; white deposits are mineral scale
- Wipe the exterior of the nozzle and the dispenser recess area with a cloth dampened in undiluted white vinegar
- Use a cotton swab soaked in vinegar to reach the corners of the dispenser recess
- Dispense 1–2 cups of water through the system after cleaning to flush the nozzle
Drip Tray
- Remove the drip tray (most slide or lift straight out)
- Wash in warm soapy water; for mould stains use a diluted bleach solution (1 teaspoon per cup of water), soak for 10 minutes, then rinse thoroughly
- Dry before reinstalling
Ice Chute and Ice Bin
- Empty the ice bin and wash with warm water and dish soap — ice bins accumulate freezer odours and sometimes develop freezer burn deposits on the plastic
- Wipe the ice chute with a cloth dampened in vinegar solution; allow to dry before making ice again
Water Filter
- Most fridge water filters need replacing every 6 months — a clogged filter reduces flow and may allow contaminants through; a slow dispenser is usually the first sign
- After replacing the filter: dispense and discard 2–3 litres of water to flush the new filter before drinking (new filters release carbon particles in the first few litres)